Dunollie Museum, Castle and Grounds

Dunollie Museum, Castle and Grounds

Dunollie Museum, Castle and Grounds are situated on the outskirts of Oban towards Ganavan. The castle is situated at the top of a small hill and the walk up is fairly steep. Once at the top of the hill visitors can enter the walled courtyard. This offers great views to Kerrera, Mull and beyond. Dunollie Castle is a ruin with no roof but visitors can enter and walk up a flight of stairs. The upper section is not accessible.

In the grounds there is also 

 

Dunollie Castle History

The existing ruins of the castle was built by the McDougall Clan in the 15th century. Prior to the McDougall clan the area was home to the kings of Dalriada. This was a Gaelic Kingdom from West Scotland (Argyll) and North-East Ireland (county Antrim) in the 5th to 7th century. They had earlier fortifications on the site.

How to Get to Dunollie Castle

By car the castle, museum & grounds are only a few minute drive from the town of Oban. Follow the coastal road from Oban to Ganavan and turn off at the foot of the castle into the grounds. Parking is available onsite.  It is also possible to walk to the castle. Continue walking from the town centre with the sea on your left hand side. Walk past the Corran halls, then the war memorial. Once you pass this the castle should become visible, follow the path on the right. You will walk past the “Dog Stone”. A large rock standing on its own. Legend has it that the giant Fingal used to tie his dog Bran to the rock when he went hunting.

 

For more information on visiting the castle, museum and grounds visit the Dunollie castle website.

Other attractions worth visiting in Oban and the surrounding area include McCaig’s Tower, Oban Distillery and Tobermory.

Accommodation in and around Oban

Check our accommodation guide to find the best places to stay in Oban and the surrounding area. From luxury hotels to budget B&B’s and campsites. One of the budget friendly hotels is the Premier Inn Oban, situated in the town centre near the ferry terminal and train station.